As a mum and a family photographer in Hawke’s Bay, I totally get it – keeping kids happy and entertained during a photoshoot can feel like a mission! But honestly, the best photos happen when everyone’s relaxed and having fun. Forget stiff poses and forced smiles; let’s talk about fun games for kids’ photoshoots in Hawke’s Bay that bring out the giggles and real, joy-filled moments.
These are my go-to games that make family sessions feel more like playtime than a photoshoot – perfect for Napier, Hastings, or wherever we’re adventuring across beautiful Hawke’s Bay.
Animal Games
Kids LOVE pretending to be animals, and it’s such a fun way to break the ice. I’ll say things like, “Who can roar like a lion?” or “Let’s hop like bunnies!” If parents join in, it’s even better. There’s nothing like a whole family stomping around like elephants – the laughs are priceless, and the photos? Even better.
Chinese Whispers
A classic! We’ll line up and pass a silly message down the line. By the time it reaches the last person, it’s usually completely wrong and absolutely hilarious. This is great for warming up shy kids and getting everyone laughing.
4. Run Under the Blanket
I bring a big, lightweight blanket and we hold it up like a canopy. The kids take turns running under it – the look on their faces is pure joy. Simple, energetic, and so fun to photograph!
Red Light, Green Light
You can’t go wrong with this classic. I’ll call out “Green light!” and they run toward me, “Red light!” and they freeze. Their dramatic freeze poses – or cheeky wobbles – are golden. It adds so much playful energy to the session.
Jumping Off Logs, Over Waves, or Down Sand Dunes
Whether we’re at the beach, in the woods, or at the park, jumping never fails. I’ll encourage them to jump off logs, leap over waves, or tumble down sand dunes. It’s perfect for capturing their wild, adventurous spirit
Airplane
Little ones LOVE this one! Parents lift them up like an airplane and fly them around. The giggles, the movement, the connection – it all adds up to beautiful, joy-filled photos.
Bear Hugs
Big, squishy bear hugs – the kind where you wrap your arms around someone and don’t want to let go. Whether it’s siblings or parents and kids, these hugs are full of warmth and love, and it shows in every single frame.
Bonus: Tickle Fights
This one’s for the grownups – a quick tickle attack always gets belly laughs and snuggly, squirmy moments. It’s an easy way to bring connection and fun to your photos.
These playful games are exactly what I bring to every session as a Hawke’s Bay family photographer – it’s all about capturing real moments.
At the end of the day, photoshoots don’t have to be stressful. These games aren’t just about getting great photos – they’re about making memories, having fun, and letting kids be kids. So next time you’re thinking about family photos in Hawke’s Bay, just know we’ll be playing, laughing, and keeping it super relaxed.
Which of these games do you reckon your kids would love?
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